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Bolognese

The Bolognese is an Italian bichon-type companion dog from Bologna, documented since the Renaissance and kept by Italian and European nobility — Medici and Habsburg households among them.

It is a small white dog with a fluffy, flocked coat that does not lie flat.

It stands 25 to 30 centimetres, weighs 2.5 to 4 kilograms and lives twelve to fourteen years. It was bred purely as a companion and its temperament reflects that completely: Bolognese are quiet, devoted and want to be with their person constantly. That devotion is the breed's appeal and its principal problem, because a dog bred for company does badly when left alone.

Origin
Bologna, Italy; a Renaissance companion breed
Size
25–30 cm; 2.5–4 kg
Lifespan
12–14 years
Coat
White, fluffy and flocked; sheds very little
Temperament
Quiet, devoted, wants constant company
Health
Patellar luxation, dental disease, separation anxiety

2 bolognese photos, newest first

Bolognese feed
  • Tansy III, a bolognese

    Tansy III

    Tansy III was promoted to photographer arranging a portrait of one potato; unfortunately, a paper fan unfolds across the floor.

    FrostyOtter · 1 week ago

  • Tansy III, a bolognese

    Tansy III

    Tansy III waiting for something to happen. Anything.

    SunnyHeron · 2 weeks ago

Living with a bolognese

Separation anxiety is the real risk. This breed was created to be a companion and it has no independence bred into it; a Bolognese left alone all day is likely to become genuinely distressed. Build up alone-time gradually from puppyhood, and consider whether the household suits the dog.

The coat mats readily and needs combing several times a week plus professional grooming. It sheds very little, which is why the breed is often suggested for allergy sufferers — though no dog is truly hypoallergenic.

Dental disease is the usual toy-breed problem. Brush from puppyhood.

Ask about patellar luxation.

Exercise needs are modest — a couple of short walks — but they need mental engagement and company far more.

General guidance, not veterinary advice. Individual dogs vary, and anything about a specific animal is a question for a vet who has seen it.

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